By Steffen Klenk
More than 240 boys and girls in our community, between the ages of 5-15, spent their summer months off season raising money for the community as part of a non-profit organization called Our Children Making Change.
Laura Dulac is the founder and president of Our Children Making Change. Inspired by her three kids, she started the organization as a way to get other young individuals to help out in their community. At the beginning of the season, the kids pledge to raise $100 through creative fundraising efforts, whether its lemonade stands, bake sales, talent shows and car washes.
“Even more than the money they raise, it’s astonishing to have kids who want to make a difference and can’t wait next to summer to do it all over again,” says Dulac.
Over the past eleven years, Our Children Making Change has raised more than $500,000 for local organizations; at the beginning of the season, each charity is submitted and voted on by the youngsters themselves. This year, the kids raised a grand total of $23,110 which will be split amongst six charities; Heart of Surfing, Leadership Studio, Kira Foundation, 21 Down, Atlantic City Humane Society and the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.
On Monday, the kids were rewarded for their efforts with an evening of fun provided by Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, pizza at Tony P’s House of Pie and George’s Ice Cream. We applaud the hard rock and diligence of these young individuals and their dedication to assisting our friends and neighbors here in South Jersey.
Steffen Klenk is a multimedia journalist. He resides in Ocean City and enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life.